Sure, there are occasions when we want a tadpole hipster to do our hair and tell us we’re fab. But most of the time, we want a haircut—and cutter—we can rely on. Enter Umberto, the landmark Beverly Hills salon that still sets the standard for service and style. We’ve always loved that the receptionists actually listen to what prospective clients really want, then hook them up with a stylist who does just that. Umberto and his better half, Babette, have always scouted staff who know their stuff—and then some. (We’re partial to John as much as for his red-carpet highjinks as for his savvy with scissors.)

Sometimes, though, we just want to be in our own little world. That’s where Umberto’s private room comes in. Celebs use it at will, but even we sub-spotlighted folks can reserve it for a half- or full-day of beauty: color, cut, makeup, and manicures are available. (Facials are done in a private room as well.) We can’t promise you’ll leave incognito (the press found Britney Spears when she departed), but hey—you’ll look fabulous for the cameras when you do.

416 N. Canon Drive, Beverly Hills; 310.274.6395

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